Middleweight motorcycle melee: Hero Hunk 160R 4V vs. Honda CB150X

Motorcycle buyers looking for a middleweight two-wheeler now have a more affordable option in the form of the Hero Hunk 160R 4V.

The said model is part of the three-motorcycle offering by Hero Motocorp, which operates in the Philippines under the leadership of Terrafirma Motors Corporation. It was launched not too long ago alongside the small displacement scooter Xoom 110 and the XPulse 200 4V adventure bike.

But how does the Hero Hunk 160R 4V fare against some models considered by enthusiasts as segment staples? Take, the Honda CB150X, for example. Let’s find out as we pit them against each other in this middleweight motorcycle melee.

Body

At the fore, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V wears an angular cowling that houses its LED headlamp. On each of its sides are squarish turn signals while atop (facing the rider) sits an inverted LCD console.

The fuel tank of the two-wheeler is covered with fairings that boast a good amount of contours and angles. Slapped on its flanks are chrome “HUNK” nameplates and depending on the color, would either be red or silver decals, that provide the motorcycle a sporty accent.

At the back, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V gets a taillamp that tapers outward as well as a rear fender that protrudes from the motorcycle’s hind. Here, one can find two squarish turn signals as well as a reflector for added visibility.

On the other hand, the Honda CB150X has design elements more akin to off-road-ready motorcycle models. That said, one will find its duck-bill front fascia striking as well as its large headlamp coupled with a high windshield.

The fairings that swathe the fuel tank of the Honda CB150X also appear to be aerodynamically designed and contribute to its almost pointy body. Here, one can see durable-looking claddings that seem to match the engine guard that covers the underside of the bike.

The rear end of the Honda CB150X gets angular appointments with a sharp-looking taillamp, a two-part grab bar, as well as two turn signals sticking out of its behind.

Overall, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V and Honda CB150X are tied in this round since they represent styles and designs from both ends of the spectrum. It is likely that they will attract different kinds of riders with the former leaning toward city riding and the latter appealing to those who prefer to veer off the beaten path.

Chassis

The Hero Hunk 160R 4V is built on a tubular underbone diamond frame supported by a KYB-branded upside-down front fork and a seven-step adjustable monoshock at the rear.

It also uses a set of 17-inch wheels, which happens to have a 100/80 tubeless tire at the front and a 130/70 tubeless tire at the back.

Stopping power comes from petal-type disc brakes at the front equipped with an anti-lock brake system and a petal-style disc brake at the rear.

Not to be outdone, the Honda CB150X uses a Showa-branded inverted front fork as well as a pro-link system at the back.

The adventure-ready motorcycle rides on 17-inch wheels, which are wrapped in a 100/80 series tire at the front and a 130/70-sized rubber at the rear.

Deceleration and halts are facilitated by a pair of wavy hydraulic disc brakes.

Both motorcycles also appear to be neck and neck in this round. So, we’re calling it a tie.

Engine

The Hero Hunk 160R 4V is equipped with a 163.2 cubic centimeter (cc) engine mated to a five-speed constant mesh transmission. On paper, this setup is said to make 16.6 horsepower (hp) with 14.6 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque.

Based on the said numbers, the Hero Hunk 160R 4V would make for a good pick for riding in and out of the city and could cover both short and long distances as the naked bikes use oil cooling to maintain optimal engine temperatures.

On the other hand, the Honda CB150X packs a 149 cc engine paired with a six-speed constant mesh manual transmission system. In unison, they put out an impressive 15.4 hp with 13.8 Nm of pulling power.

The liquid-cooled powerplant also makes the Honda CB150X a good choice for those who want to cover longer distances.

With a little more power to dish out, this round goes to the Hero Hunk 160R 4V.

Pricing

Hero Hunk 160R 4V: P99,900.
Honda CB150X: P173,900.

Verdict

The Hero Hunk 160R 4V wins this battle thanks to making a little more power than its rival. Nevertheless, both motorcycles are good picks for buyers looking for a middleweight two-wheeler.

Also read:

Hero XPulse 200 4V: pros and cons

Hero XPulse 200 4V vs. the competition

Here is Hero Motorcorp’s initial lineup for PH